December is filled with twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and traditions passed down through generations. It’s a magical time to help students learn why we celebrate the season the way we do — from decorated trees to bustling markets and festive foods.
This month, I’m spotlighting two of my newest fact booklets that explore where these traditions began — and how they’ve evolved. Along with these, I’ve paired a few meaningful read-aloud books and simple hands-on activities you can do at home or in the classroom to make learning both joyful and memorable.
So grab a warm drink, your favorite picture book, and let’s dive into some Christmas traditions together.
The History of the Christmas Tree
Christmas trees are one of the most recognizable symbols of the holiday season — but their story goes back much farther than many realize. With roots in ancient winter celebrations, evergreen trees have long represented hope, life, and the return of sunshine after the darkest days of winter.
This booklet helps students explore how different cultures shaped the tradition over time — from candles and apples, to ornaments and lights — making it the perfect learning companion for December.
Christmas Market Fact Booklet
Christmas markets are full of music, treats, handmade gifts, and colorful stalls — and they play an important role in winter culture, especially in Europe. These markets began as places where people gathered to prepare for the long, cold months ahead. Over time, they became places of celebration, community, and tradition.
With this booklet, children learn about foods, decorations, crafts, and customs — while also developing an appreciation for history, geography, and global holiday celebrations.
Looking to extend learning even further? These picture books beautifully support the history-and-tradition focus and make great read-alouds during December.
The Legend of the Christmas Tree by Rick Osborne -
This story offers a meaningful look at the symbolism behind evergreen trees and how they became connected to Christmas. It supports discussion around meaning and tradition rather than just decoration.
Walk This World at Christmastime by Debbie Powell -
Travel the globe without leaving your classroom! This book introduces how different countries celebrate the season with music, food, festivals, and traditions — perfect for comparing and connecting cultures.
Pick a Pine Tree by Patricia Toht -
A fun and engaging read-aloud that takes students through the excitement of choosing, decorating, and celebrating around a Christmas tree — building emotional connection and anticipation.
The Nutcracker (child-friendly retelling) -
This classic and beautifully illustrated story highlights European traditions, storytelling, and holiday performances — connecting directly to what might be seen in holiday markets.
The Little Christmas Tree by Jessica Courtney-Tickle -
A gentle and poetic tale about belonging, growth, and holiday joy — a lovely emotional connection to the tree tradition.
Hands-On Activities to Bring the Learning to Life
Here are some simple, meaningful activities you can pair with the books or use alongside the fact booklets:
Mini Christmas Market Craft - Students create tiny paper or cardboard market stalls, choosing what they sell — ornaments, food, or handmade items. This connects to economics, culture, and creativity.
STEM Evergreen Challenge - Set up a challenge: Can you build a tree that stands tall and holds ornaments? Use materials like sticks, dough, paper cones, blocks, or modeling clay. This activity encourages engineering and problem-solving.
Ornament Heritage Project - Invite students to decorate a paper ornament representing a tradition from home — or research one from another country. This activity supports geography, cultural identity, and SEL.
Market Senses Exploration - Use scent jars (pine, cinnamon, orange, peppermint) or optional taste tests (gingerbread or peppermint candy). This builds science connections and descriptive writing.
Real vs. Artificial Tree Inquiry Lab - Compare texture, smell, needles, weight, and durability — then chart findings. This integrates observation skills and classification.
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December is more than decorations — it’s a time rich with meaning, culture, and community. By sharing stories, exploring traditions, and offering hands-on learning experiences, we help children appreciate history while also building understanding, curiosity, and connection.
Whether you’re teaching in a classroom or reading together at home, these books and activities are a wonderful way to celebrate the season with purpose, joy, and wonder.
Wishing you a warm and meaningful December full of reading moments worth remembering!
This resources may be found in my store:
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/thebeezyteacher
